Detroit’s Giant Christmas Tree Lights Up Friday Night! Here’s What To Know.

Play episode

If there’s one night where Detroit’s magic and wonder abounds, it’s going to be this Friday night. The festivities at Campus Martius are a must-not-miss for Detroit lovers as the DTE Energy Foundation presents and lights a spectacular 60 ft. Christmas Tree on November 20.

The 12th annual Detroit Tree Lighting ceremony starts at 5 p.m. and is packed with performers with roots in Detroit, including:

  • The Four Tops
  • Former World Champion and Olympic skater Todd Eldridge
  • Karen Newman
  • Michigan Opera Theatre’s Holiday Ensemble and Children’s Choir
  • Larry Lee & The Back In The Day Band
  • A Special performance from Emily Sobeck, a Make-A-Wish Michigan Wish Kid.

“The tree lighting has become a wonderful tradition in Detroit and a way to show appreciation to the communities we serve, helping thousands of families create memories that will last a lifetime.” says Faye Nelson, vice president, Public Affairs, DTE Energy and president of the DTE Energy Foundation.

The tree, which sits atop the Woodward Fountain, will be lit near the end of the skating show at 7:45 p.m. and the Rink Opening Party follows from 8:30 p.m. until midnight.

If you want to get rink side for the action, show up a bit early and make a $10 donation. Enter from the east side of the park. From previous years experience – we can tell you that this the place to be to see the lights. If you work downtown and live in the suburbs, we’d highly suggest staying parked and not making the loop home and staying through. This is a special event that draws thousands.

If you’d like to see some lights get turned on earlier, the Salvation Army will light its giant Red Kettle at 6:00 p.m.

There’s not just the tree, though. Showcase D’Holidays is an ongoing series of events on Fridays and Saturdays, and that will feature food, hot chocolate cocktail bar, music, and family fun in Campus Martius Park.

Other activities include the Salvation Army Family Fun Tent, photos with Santa and horse-drawn carriage rides.

See you out there on Friday night!  And if you don’t make it out, we’ll have photos and more here on Daily Detroit the day after.

More from this show